SantaCon 2019: Bigger and Better

Central Texas’ Santas turned out in force on Saturday, December 7 for the 3rd annual SantaCon event on Rainey Street, making this year’s celebration our most successful yet!

“Over 1,500 attendees came out and raised almost $30,000 to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas,” said BBBS’ Vice President of Development, Lauren Portley.

Arriving in a variety of holiday-themed attire, the crowd enjoyed crisp, clear weather and merrily made their way along a trail of Santa Stops hosted by Alibi, Bungalow, Container Bar and Parlor Room, as well as special stops at Clive and Lustre Pearl. Enjoying drink specials, unique attractions and entertaining activities at each venue, the enthusiastic crowd raised a record amount of funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas – enough to take 25 kids off of our waiting list!

As in years past, the Reindeer Games offered friendly competition for teams who raised $500 or more prior to the event. In addition to past years’ favorites, the Snowball Fight and the Costume Contest, the Antler Ring Toss debuted this year, providing an entertaining challenge for all involved.

“Several new event sponsors also added elements of novelty to this year’s event,” said Lauren.

Thanks to FIX Vodka, SantaCon 2019 participants enjoyed a vodka tasting opportunity at Alibi Bar. And, for the first time this year, Pizza Hut delivered free pizza and dessert throughout the day at the Container Bar, and provided free beanies to the first 500 visitors. The Pizza Hut mascot, “Slice”, made an appearance as well, and the drawing for ‘One Year of Free Pizza’ was a big hit!

DPR Construction generously supported this year’s Snowball Fight at the Bungalow Bar, while returning sponsor Bumble hosted a Santa Photo-Op provided by MYEVENTISTHEBOMB and Sweets with Santa provided by Edible Arrangements.

As the evening closed in, the event’s momentum continued, and the crowd made its way to Clive Bar for the Costume Contest. As the impressively dressed contestants strode the competitive catwalk, audience applause and enthusiasm determined a tie for first place. Both a gentleman Santa dressed for a night on the town in a three-piece suit and bowtie, and a Mrs. Claus of Native American descent adorned with ceremonial bells and leather boots shared the title of 2019 SantaCon Costume Champion.

New sponsors, Kendra Scott and Moody Bank also provided generous support for SantaCon 2019 and our Host Committee, made up of current and former Bigs, as well as supportive community members, contributed to the continued growth and development of this festive annual event. We couldn’t have done it without them!

We’re grateful for the record attendance and fundraising success of this spirited seasonal celebration, thankful for the support of our generous sponsors, host venues, committee members and attendees, and already looking forward to SantaCon 2020! We hope you’ll make plans to join us!

You can keep up with the latest event information and details at www.SantaConCTX.org or @SantaConCTX.

See photos of SantaCon 2019 in our photo album here